Maurice Howard was born in Waco, Texas, and grew up in Southern California.

When he was three years old, his family moved to France, where his dad served in the military. After a few years in Europe, his family came back to the United States.

At 19, Howard became inspired to paint. He attended several independent art schools and later enrolled in Cal State Fullerton College, where he majored in Fine Art studies. After finishing college, Hanna-Barbera Productions Studio hired him as an “In-Betweener” in the animation department. Following his employment at Hanna-Barbera, he worked as a Dental Technician in Pasadena, California.

Inspired by Salvador Dali, McEscher, and African -American graphic artist and painter Charles White, Howard’s style of work is perceived across the board, from realism to surrealism. He uses a blend of pencil, acrylic, and oil to produce vibrant abstract images that are unique, such that when the viewer looks at the picture, a mysterious image is revealed under his continuous layers of lines and curves.

In 1982, the City of Hollywood commissioned Howard to create a community mural of the “Melrose Clown,” a popular image that was viewed often by people in the neighborhood and later received its debut in two notable films, “The Last Dragon” and “Rhythm Of The Night.”

Today, Maurice credits much of his success to renowned artist Charles Bibbs, who has supported and motivated him. “I am extremely grateful to have this opportunity to work under an artist of his caliber and one who is highly respected in the art community.” Maurice is serving as a member of the Art2000 Visual Artists Association, founded by Charles Bibbs to help support young and emerging artists.

“For me, I am interested in stepping out on faith, which is pivotal in my life as an artist. Without faith, the road leads you to nowhere. At some point, you have to allow whatever is inside you to guide you. As ideas come to me, like a plant, my inspirations grow from there.”